Several obstacles might prevent you from achieving the healthiest skin possible, and one of these culprits is your facial towel. While it may be hard to believe, the toilet seat is not the most germ-ridden item in your house. In reality, the towels you use to wipe your face are often the most contaminated. Therefore, using towels on your face may actually harm your skin, and it may seem sensible to dry your face with a towel, but doing so can be more harmful than helpful.
Skin care professionals frequently criticize the use of towels because they collect dirt and bacteria that can be transferred to the skin. In the name of healthier skin, some beauty experts are now opting to not use towels at all. One of the main advantages of avoiding towel usage is that it is better for the skin. The rubbing, pulling, and friction of towels can irritate freshly cleaned skin. Like practically every other surface we come into contact with, towels can accumulate bacteria, which can then be transferred to the skin when patting dry. Even towels that we believe to be clean may not be so. A clean towel hanging next to a toilet, between six and twenty feet away, could still accumulate bacteria. Ew.
Fabric towels are not only harsh on the skin but also a breeding ground for bacteria. Towels can accumulate germs, bacteria, fungi, dead skin cells, and oils, which can lead to skin infections, acne flare-ups, and discomfort. Therefore, it’s worth pausing and reconsidering before using a towel to dry your face.
Using a towel on your face also increases the risk of premature skin aging. The fibers of the epidermis can stretch during strong friction, leading to the appearance of fine wrinkles. If your skin is prone to oiliness and frequent breakouts, a towel (even if used exclusively for the face) can be a culprit for acne on the cheeks, forehead, and chin. A terry towel can harbor pathogenic microbes that cause inflammation. Moreover, if there is already a pimple on the skin, it can easily be injured, and the towel can spread its contents over healthy areas, causing new inflammation.
Instead of using towels, consider air-drying your face after using your favorite facial cleanser or simply letting your face dry without a towel after a shower. You may have heard about the benefits of air-drying your hair, but incorporating air-drying into your skincare routine can also be beneficial. It may take longer than using a towel, but air-drying is more hygienic and gentler on your skin, and your skin will thank you for it! Additionally, applying skincare products to slightly damp skin can increase their effectiveness. When you apply a tonic, cream, or serum on a damp face, the active ingredients in the products are absorbed along with the water, improving the overall condition of your skin.
Air-drying your face after using your favorite facial cleanser or drying off without a towel after a shower is also a good idea. You’ve probably heard about the advantages of letting your hair air-dry, but you may have yet to consider adding air-drying to your skincare regimen; it is unquestionably a step worth taking. You may find that air-drying can help with several skincare issues, such as dry skin (did you know that your moisturizer works better when applied to damp skin?). It is also great for skin that is prone to breakouts or blackheads. Although it takes longer than simply wiping your face with a towel, air drying is more hygienic and kind to your skin. Your skin will appreciate it!